The forecast captures what Minnesotans are experiencing and I suspect that you will not be surprised by what you read. As you already know, we are facing a fierce challenge- one that requires an extraordinary response which begins with a clear understanding the problem we are facing.

Town Hall Meetings

I am inspired by the more than seven thousand Minnesotans who attended one of Town Hall meetings held across the state in the past couple of weeks. Members of the House and Senate, republicans and democrats together attended the meetings.

Minnesotans shared a litany of perspectives and concerns about the budget and cuts. Across the state, Minnesotans asked us to be fair as we balance the budget. They asked that we not target one part of the budget over others. There was a predictably wide divide between those opposed to new taxes and those asking for new revenue solve some of the deficit.

Thanks to everyone who attended, testified or sent testimony to me. Thanks also to the excellent work by the House and Senate staff who organized all of the logistics.

The Work Ahead

With the forecast complete, committees will begin to process the bills that will serve as the foundation for the House budget proposal. On Friday we recieved the 380 page bill which represents the Governor's 'Version One' (pre-federal stimulus) budget proposal for Health and Human Services. Though we have had proposed budget pages, we cannot begin to act on proposals till they are in bill form, ready for hearing.

Twitter

Rep. Murphy on Health Care

State Representative

I welcome you to my blog. My name is Erin Murphy and I am proud to serve as the District 64A Representative in the Minnesota House of Representatives. I represent part of St. Paul that includes Merriam Park, Mac-Groveland, and Summit Hill neighborhoods. I created this blog to help my constituents and other concerned citizens have an easily accessible avenue to learn what their state legislator is up to.
Tell me what you think at rep.erin.murphy@house.mn.

Copyright 2009 Representative Erin Murphy, St. Paul, 64A. All Rights Reserved. Powered by BloggerNot paid for at government expense. This blog is not produced for the purpose of influencing the nomination or election of a candidate, and is therefore not a campaign expenditure.